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Torch-Fired Enamel Jewelry For Beginners

Torch-Fired Enamel Jewelry for Beginners combines beading and wire-working techniques with the intense beauty of torch-fired enameled beads. Metal becomes your canvas as you learn the basics of enameling with a torch, then create five exquisite pieces, including a bracelet, ring, necklace and two sets of earrings. Find out how easy it is to create unique and colorful enamel pieces in this innovative, comprehensive guide to the world of torch-fired enameling.

I pre-ordered this book in May and it was worth the wait!The book is divided into 2 main sections. The first section is dedicated to technique and technical aspects of torch fired enamel jewelry. The second section is dedicated to projects, but also includes several additional techniques not included in the 1st section.Information included in the tech section starts with a brief history of this particular enameling technique. The first technical aspect you learn about is what types of metal are appropriate for enameling, what colors to start out with (because there are SO MANY COLOR CHOICES!), how the colors interact with each other, appropriate method for using transparent vs. opaque, using the torch flame to advantage. That is just the beginning.Barbara Lewis also covers how to set up a proper workspace and the few tools you will need (not many at ALL!) and the most important tool, the torch. This technique does not require an expensive torch or an elaborate set-up. I will give you a little hint...the Fireworks torch can be purchased at Hobby Lobby. Use a 40% coupon and get it for a GREAT price.Included in the info about tools is a box titled Drill Bits Demystified which is incredibly helpful when trying to order bits or deciding which size you need to use for which size wire.There are two pages of how to torch fire beads with large clear photos and step by step instructions with tips sprinkled about to help you achieve success. The two pages after that include how to torch fire pendants and charms, safety, enameling tips, and a FULL page dedicated to troubleshooting.

I will be straight up from the get go, I am writing my review because I was made aware of some VERY negative reviews on this book that had little to do with the book itself, but were more a character attack on the author. I almost never write reviews because I am too busy doing artistic, creative things with my life to bother with spending my time writing about my opinions online. My husband and I have bought dozens and dozens of books from over the years, but I don't think either of us has ever left a review, until now!I became aware of Barbara Lewis in 2011. I joined her Ning group before I ever bought her book because I was so intrigued by the technique she was teaching. After discovering I could use the equipment I already had as a lampwork bead maker, I was extremely excited to get her book and try this technique. I have years of experience working with a torch and glass and found her technique to be fairly user friendly, but not without a learning curve. I believe anything worth doing is worth putting effort in and if it's SO easy that it takes NO effort at all, it's not likely to be something I would want to keep doing. I make and sell my own jewelry designs, so I like using techniques that are interesting and exciting, but not the kind of thing you can run down to Micheal's and pick up all the supplies for and make in a weekend. I like true art. That which takes time to perfect, but is fairly accessible from the start. I believe what Barbara teaches is just that. You can be successful on your first bead, but it does take time to learn how to master all the subtle nuances of enamels.I think Barbara does a wonderful job of explaining the basic technique in this book and then builds upon it in the projects in the book.